Skype to replace Messenger by March 15

Microsoft will officially "retire" its Messenger online chat on March 15, replacing it with Skype.

In an email message sent out late last week, the software giant advised users to update to Skype using their same account information before the expiry date.

"You'll be able to instant message and video chat...just like before, and also discover new ways of staying in touch with Skype on your mobile and tablet," Microsoft said.

Skype, a recent acquisition for the company, will replace Messenger in every country except for China, after Microsoft initially made the announcement in November last year.

“We’ve got good news to share!” said Tony Bates at the time, president Skye division, Microsoft.

“Skype and Messenger are coming together.

“Millions of Messenger users will be able to reach their Messenger friends on Skype.

“By updating to Skype, Messenger users can instant message and video call their Messenger friends.

“This effort started with the release of Skype 6.0 for Mac and Windows a few weeks ago, which allows you to sign into Skype using a Microsoft account.

“Now Messenger users just need to update to the latest version of Skype, sign in using a Microsoft account, and their Messenger contacts will be there.

“Our goal remains to deliver the best communications experience for everyone, everywhere.

“We want to focus our efforts on making things simpler for our users while continuously improving the overall experience."

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